|
At this time, we are not considering Volvo or Beta Marine
engines. Why not? Lack of an acceptable track record, no local
dealer support (Beta), or at least no dealers we wish to deal with (Volvo), unanswered questions about
long-term reliability and parts availability, etc. The Universal is not
really under serious consideration either, although we're trying to cover our
bases. The choice between the Yanmar and Westerbeke is a little more
difficult, however.
We have a Yanmar dealer locally who comes well recommended by
a friend. We've also been quoted a fair price for the engine, and I think
it will be relatively compatible with our existing mounting system.
Yanmars also enjoy a good reputation worldwide.
However, the Westerbeke has some things going for it too--good
engine features, solid reputation, etc. I know a little less about the
Westerbeke than the Yanmar. Also, the nearest dealer is in Massachusetts--not
a substantial obstacle, but something worth considering.
I have documentation coming in the mail for both of these
engines. As anxious as we are to start moving ahead with the replacement,
I think we will be well served to ensure that we are making the best
choice. I will not rush the process, despite my general inclinations to
make a decision, stick with it, and move quickly. At this point, I'd
rather upset our summer plans a little in order to get the best long-term
result.
UPDATE 7/13/01
We have all but decided to go with the Yanmar 2GM20F.
We've gotten a fair price quite from Orr's Island Boat Works, and I expect to go
ahead with the order early next week--after getting a few minor questions
answered. The scuttlebutt is that the Yanmars are reliable, trouble-free,
easily maintained, and generally very satisfactory. There were a few
questions raised by Westerbeke owners about the service and such after the sale,
while I know that Yanmar has an excellent parts and dealer network. I
heard not one negative comment about the Yanmar.
UPDATE 7/17/01
Yesterday, I ordered our new engine! We went with the
Yanmar after much thought. It will fit with only minimal modifications to
the engine beds, which is a huge factor--I will have to slightly raise the beds,
which is easily accomplished. I ordered a new propeller (12Dx13P) to match
the new engine, and also purchased a nice new Vetus single-lever control to
replace the existing Morse controls. We ordered the engine from Bill
Sweetman at Orr's Island Boat Works--a
great guy, and a nice small, low-key business. When I ordered it, he told
me that there was only a couple days' wait for delivery--good news! Now
that this process is underway, I'm excited about the new engine, and can't wait
to remove the old one. I ran it again yesterday, and it was smoky as ever. Good
riddance...
If the engine arrives this week, I plan to do the swap next
week, as long as the boatyard can accommodate. I plan to haul out to make
things easier--and I have to change the propeller anyway. My goal will be
to do the swap as fast as possible and get the boat back in the water.
|
|
UPDATE 7/26/01
 The
engine arrived on Tuesday, a little later than expected. I drove up and
picked it up from Orr's Island, and returned home with my shiny, beautiful new
engine! I got it out of the truck the same way I did with the old SB12
back in January 2000. This one looks a little
nicer, though.
I scheduled a haulout for Monday, July 30, 2001. I hope
to have the old smoky beast out by the end of that day, and be well into
preparations for installing the new engine. I have a new propeller (12x13
Michigan Sailer 3 blade) to install as well.
Please follow the installation process by clicking
here.
|
